headspace is committed to embracing diversity and eliminating all forms of discrimination in the provision of health services. headspace welcomes all
people irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity.

Information & support

For young people

Learn about mental health, or if you need support, get in-touch with someone who can help.

You might also be able to get concessions through Centrelink that can help you out with public transport and medical expenses.

Be aware of your situation

Lots of things affect whether or not you get a payment, and how much you’ll get if you do. They include:

your age

how much money you have (this is the assets test we were talking about earlier!)

how much money you currently earn

whether or not you’re studying

your living situation

whether or not you live with a partner

how much your parents or guardians earn.

It’s worth having some idea about this stuff before you deal with Centrelink directly. But don’t worry if you’re not sure about your eligibility ­– they can talk you through it in person or on the phone.

Get in touch with Centrelink

There are different ways to get in touch with Centrelink to find out more information so you can make a claim.

Phone

The great thing about calling up is that you’ll be put directly through to the service you need. Wait times can be over an hour though, so it’s a good idea to call first thing in the morning or listen to your phone through headphones so you can do something else while you’re on hold. Give them a buzz on 132 011.

In person

Sometimes the easiest way to explain your situation is to talk to someone face to face. There are Centrelink centres all over the country – find your local centre here. They’re often very busy and you might have to wait ­– so make sure to leave yourself lots of time and bring a book or something else to do.

Online

You can access more and more Government services online. Register with MyGov then download the Express Plus mobile app. You’ll have access to more info, plus you can make claims and report your income and activity requirements.

Once you’ve spoken to Centrelink staff and made your claim, you’ll have to wait while Centrelink processes it. This can take around twelve weeks but can vary depending on the service.

Do your activities

Sometimes you’ll need to do things to get your payments, including:

Going to appointments with an employment service provider

Applying for a certain number of jobs per fortnight

Telling Centrelink how other much money (if any) you have earned

Meet certain university study obligations

Work for the dole

It’s important you know what these activities are, and do them properly – if you don’t, you could lose your payments! If you’re not sure of something, it’s always good to ask.

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headspace would like to acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as Australia’s First People and Traditional Custodians. We value their cultures, identities, and continuing connection to country, waters, kin and community. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and are committed to making a positive contribution to the wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people, by providing services that are welcoming, safe, culturally appropriate and inclusive.

headspace is committed to embracing diversity and eliminating all forms of discrimination in the provision of health services. headspace welcomes all people irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity.